The tireless and crucial efforts to free political prisoners in the US have achieved beautiful and powerful victories. Earlier this month, we joined communities in Philadelphia and across the country in celebrating the freedom of Chuck Africa, who after over 40 years in prison, became the final imprisoned MOVE 9 member to be released! Chuck’s release came just a month after Delbert Africa’s release in January. We're inspired by the work and organizing of the Africa family and community, the Abolitionist Law Center and the People's Law Office, and all those who made these wins possible.
Beyond reuniting freedom fighters with their families, loved ones, and communities, these victories enliven the freedom dreams of ongoing campaigns to release political prisoners still held in captivity.As prison industrial complex (PIC) abolitionists, we recognize that struggle of political prisoners lies at the heart of our movement. Because a central function of the PIC is to squash and repress those who dare resist, it is on all of our movements to support those who have sacrificed their freedom in the fight for liberation. Critical Resistance stands strong with the campaigns to free Mumia Abu Jamal, Dr. Mutulu Shakur, Leonard Peltier, and the many others who remain locked away in cages.
Because of the powerful gains made by those campaigning for freedom, the purveyors of state violence are responding. As a reaction to Mumia winning an appeal from Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner to allow for new evidence that would help him, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court this week sided with the Fraternal Order of Police and took jurisdiction over his case. The parole board in Dr. Shakur’s case continues to deny his parole for unspecified reasons. Join the support campaigns for these political prisoners to push back against this continued state repression!
Here are immediate ways to take action:
The Family and Friends of Mutulu Shakur are currently in a Week of Action to support Dr. Shakur. Sign this petition calling for the Compassionate Release of Dr. Shakur and circulate it to your networks. Then, donate to the effort to free him.
